If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or scrolled through Netflix recently, you know the vibe. John B and Sarah Cameron. The Pogue and the Kook princess. Their chemistry on Outer Banks didn't just feel real—it was real. But the internet has a short memory and a long list of rumors, leading everyone to the same question: Are Chase Stokes and Madelyn Cline dating right now?
Honestly, the answer is a hard no. They aren’t together.
It’s been years since they officially called it quits, yet the "ObX" fandom still holds out hope every time a new season drops. It makes sense. We watched them fall in love in real-time during the 2020 lockdown, saw them win "Best Kiss" at the MTV Movie & TV Awards, and then watched the messy, public fallout.
The Current Relationship Status of Chase Stokes
Chase has moved on. Like, really moved on. As of January 2026, he is officially back with country superstar Kelsea Ballerini.
Their relationship has been a bit of a rollercoaster lately. They actually split up in September 2025, which sent the "Kelsea and Chase" shippers into a tailspin. But they didn't stay apart for long. On New Year’s Eve 2025, Chase posted a carousel of photos on Instagram basically confirming they were giving it another go. He called 2026 his "year of growth" and "year of truth."
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He’s rocking a buzz cut now, too. He joked on social media that he "crashed out" and shaved his head, but Kelsea seems to dig the new look. They’ve been very vocal about "protecting their peace" this time around, especially after the media circus that followed their brief breakup last autumn.
Where Does That Leave Madelyn Cline?
Madelyn is living a very different life. After her high-profile fling with Pete Davidson ended in early 2024, she’s been pretty vocal about wanting to be single. Or at least, single-ish.
She recently did an interview with Allure where she basically said dating is a "mind-f***" when you’re famous. She’s focused on herself. She’s focused on the work. But, because this is Hollywood, the rumors never actually stop.
The latest buzz? She’s been spotted in New York City with Prince Constantine-Alexios of Greece. Yeah, an actual royal. They were seen holding hands and even caught on camera sharing a kiss at The Lions Bar. Madelyn hasn't confirmed anything officially—she’s been burned by public relationships before—but the pictures definitely tell a story that doesn't involve Chase Stokes.
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The Breakup That No One Can Forget
To understand why people still ask if they're dating, you have to look back at how deep the relationship went. They weren't just "dating"; they were the face of a global phenomenon.
They started dating while filming Season 1 of Outer Banks and stayed together for about a year and a half. When they broke up in November 2021, it wasn't just a personal split—it was a professional nightmare. They had to go back to set and play a couple that was still deeply in love.
Madelyn admitted on the Therapuss podcast with Jake Shane that the breakup was "really, really hard." She felt like her identity was tied to the show and her relationship with Chase. She literally said she didn't know "which way was up."
- June 2020: They go Instagram official with the famous "cats out of the bag" post.
- May 2021: The MTV "Best Kiss" moment that broke the internet.
- November 2021: Multiple sources confirm they are finished.
- 2022-2025: They continue to film Outer Banks seasons 3 and 4 as professionals.
How They Work Together Now
It’s gotta be awkward, right? Sitting in a marsh on a boat in Charleston, filming a scene where you have to profess your undying love to your ex-boyfriend.
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But they’ve both been incredibly classy about it. Chase told Entertainment Weekly that they made a pact before they even started dating: the work comes first. No matter what happens in their personal lives, they promised to honor the characters of John B and Sarah.
They aren't best friends, but they aren't enemies either. They’re coworkers who share a very weird, very specific history. Madelyn has called their set a "safe space," and Chase has said he will always be one of her biggest fans.
What You Should Know Moving Forward
If you see a headline tomorrow claiming Chase and Madelyn are back together, check the date. It’s almost certainly clickbait using old photos or "sources" that don't exist.
The reality of the situation:
- Chase Stokes is committed to Kelsea Ballerini and is focusing on a "healthier, more grounded" chapter in 2026.
- Madelyn Cline is exploring life outside of the "ObX" bubble, potentially with a Greek Prince, while prioritizing her own independence.
- The Show remains the priority. They will continue to act together, but the off-screen romance is ancient history.
If you’re a fan, the best thing to do is enjoy the chemistry on screen and respect the boundaries they’ve built off it. They’ve both grown up a lot since those early Season 1 days.
Actionable Insights for Fans:
- Follow their verified Instagram accounts for real updates rather than tabloid rumors.
- Watch Outer Banks Season 4 (and beyond) to see how they handle their on-screen dynamic—it's a masterclass in professional acting.
- Respect Madelyn's request for privacy regarding her new "royal" connection until she decides to share it herself.